What are the responsibilities and job description for the Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments position at Ability Builders for Children?
About the Role:The Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments plays a critical role in providing specialized educational support to students who are blind or have low vision, ensuring they receive equitable access to the curriculum and learning opportunities. This position involves assessing individual student needs, developing and implementing tailored instructional strategies, and collaborating with families, educators, and related service providers to foster student independence and academic success. The teacher will utilize specialized techniques and assistive technologies to enhance students' functional vision skills, orientation and mobility, and daily living skills. A key outcome of this role is to empower students to achieve their fullest potential academically, socially, and personally, preparing them for lifelong learning and independence. The teacher also serves as an advocate and resource within the educational community to promote awareness and inclusion of students with visual impairments.Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Visual Impairment, or a related field.Certification or licensure as a Teacher of Students for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TVI) as required by the state or governing body.Experience working with children or youth who have visual impairments. Experience working with children below 3 years old is a plus. Strong knowledge of Braille, assistive technology, and orientation and mobility principles.Ability to develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs).Preferred Qualifications:Master’s degree in Visual Impairment or related specialization.Experience with early intervention services for visually impaired infants and toddlers.Training in orientation and mobility instruction.Familiarity with current educational technology and software designed for visually impaired learners.Experience collaborating in multidisciplinary teams and conducting professional development.Responsibilities:Conduct comprehensive assessments to determine the educational needs and abilities of students with visual impairments.Develop and implement individualized education programs (IEPs) that address academic goals, orientation and mobility, and assistive technology needs.Provide direct instruction in Braille, tactile skills, and use of adaptive equipment and technology.Collaborate with classroom teachers, parents, and other professionals to integrate students effectively into general education settings.Monitor student progress and adjust instructional strategies to ensure continuous improvement and goal attainment.Train and support school staff and families on best practices for working with students with visual impairments.Maintain accurate records and documentation in compliance with educational regulations and standards.Skills:The required skills enable the teacher to assess and address the unique learning needs of students with visual impairments through specialized instructional methods and adaptive technologies. Proficiency in Braille and assistive devices is essential for daily teaching and skill development activities. Strong communication and collaboration skills are used to work effectively with families, educators, and related service providers to create inclusive learning environments. Organizational skills support the management of individualized education plans, progress monitoring, and compliance with educational standards. Preferred skills such as orientation and mobility training and advanced technology use further enhance the teacher’s ability to provide comprehensive support that promotes student independence and academic achievement.